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(See also - supporting St. Michael's)

 

• The Majority of St. Michael's funds comes from local authorities who spot purchase placements - i.e. they refer a family and then enter into a financial agreement with St. Michael's for that family's placement. The houses are all owned by Housing Associations but Supporting People funding is only available for our small supported housing scheme. Grant funding is available for some of the outreach work.

 

St. Michael's has always been run on a shoestring. It needs money for all the extras which make such a difference to the work it does. It needs money for the upkeep of the houses and their gardens. It is important to maintain a good standard of decoration and keep the houses warm, bright and welcoming. This can say a great deal to a young parent who is confused and unhappy.

Money is needed to equip the houses with modern facilities, and to have a good supply of toys and books for the children. A computer is used for training the younger parents. Money is needed for expeditions and outings - things which will be completely unfamiliar to many of our parents. All these extras can make an enormous difference to these highly disadvantaged parents and their experience of the world.

It also needs money for the charity's development. St. Michael's has the expertise but not the reserves to develop the work it does. Such is St. Michael's reputation now, that its advice is often sought. In particular, Sue Pettigrew, the director, who has guided the Fellowship so ably for so many years, in in great demand. Taking part in working groups, lecturing, advising, takes up much time for no reward.